This series, Porsche Owners File, was created in response to readers who wanted to hear directly from people who actually own Porsches. In this 23rd installment, TD shares what it’s like to own a 718 Cayman.

〘Owner Profile〙
・Car featured: 718 Cayman (2018, base model)
・Name: TD
・Region / type of residence: Kanto region
・Family: Four
・Previous cars: Mitsubishi Pajero, Nissan Pathfinder, Toyota Camry, Volkswagen Golf Variant (7.5)
・A message for readers:
I wasn’t a lifelong Porsche enthusiast—I just suddenly decided to buy one. I hope sharing what the experience is really like will be helpful to anyone considering a Porsche.

1) How I Decided to Buy a Porsche

Why did you choose Porsche?

I used to drive a Golf Variant, and that’s when I realized, “German cars are great.” I’d ridden in Mercedes-Benz, Audi and BMW models, but never in a Porsche, so I was curious.

Why choose the 718 Cayman?

Budget was a big factor, but I also thought, “If I’m getting one, I want a car that really feels like a sports car.” I considered the previous-generation naturally aspirated 6-cylinder model, but prioritized a newer car—and I wanted Miami Blue.

What sealed the deal?

I chose the Cayman over the Boxster because it came in the color I wanted—Miami Blue—and I was concerned about the soft top deteriorating since I park outdoors.

2) Options and Specifications

Options and specifications

The main options are 20-inch Carrera S wheels, Sport Chrono and LED headlights. It also has a GT steering wheel, heated seats and power-folding side mirrors.

Why did you choose these options and specifications?

I bought it used, and by the time I started looking, Miami Blue was no longer available as a new-car color, so I made the paint color my priority. I also liked the black wheels—they look great.

3) From the Search to Delivery

How long did it take, and what was the process?

I started looking around the end of the year, made my decision in March and took delivery in mid-April. The dealer was far away, so I made my decision by email and phone without seeing the car in person.
I initially searched for a Porsche Approved Certified Pre-Owned car, but couldn’t find a Cayman in Miami Blue, so I bought from an independent dealer instead.

I had some reservations about buying a car that wasn’t Porsche Approved, but the dealership’s reviews, the car’s relatively recent model year, Porsche’s reputation for reliability and its Porsche Center service records gave me confidence.

4) What Porsche Ownership Is Really Like: Performance

① Engine and engine sound

The sound when I start the engine gets me excited. The sound when shifting up and down in Sport Plus mode is properly sporty, too. It has a deep rumble, so I’m mindful of the neighbors when driving through residential areas late at night. There’s plenty of power for everyday driving.

② PDK transmission

It has a PDK transmission, but you can drive it just like a regular car. Gear changes are quick and smooth, with no hesitation.

③ Ride comfort and driving feel

Honestly, I wouldn’t call the ride especially comfortable. The Golf was quieter, had lighter steering and was more comfortable. That said, the Cayman isn’t unbearable—in fact, the ride has a character that makes me want to get behind the wheel again and again.

Now, cars that are too quiet feel a little underwhelming to me.

The Cayman also feels more stable at speeds over 100 km/h (62 mph). I haven’t driven one on the standard 18-inch wheels to compare, but I think the 20-inch wheels make a big difference.

④ Handling and brakes

The steering has a reassuring weight, and the car turns just as much as I ask it to. After driving the Cayman, the Golf’s steering feels so light that it almost makes me uneasy.
The brakes are powerful—and they squeal a lot. I’d heard beforehand that brake squeal is normal, so it doesn’t bother me.

The car also stops in proportion to how firmly I press the brake pedal. After driving the Cayman, the Golf’s lighter-feeling brakes seem strange to me, too. To be clear, though, the Golf is a great car! It drives well, feels solid and inspires confidence.

⑤ Fuel economy, maintenance and repairs

The trip computer shows 9–10 km/L (about 21–24 mpg US) around town and 12–14 km/L (about 28–33 mpg US) on long highway drives. In Normal mode, fuel economy is better than I expected. In Sport and Sport Plus, though, you can practically watch the fuel gauge drop (laughs).

My next inspection was coming up soon after delivery, so I had to get the car inspected almost immediately (sigh). I had the work done at a Porsche Center, and it cost around ¥150,000. I also paid an additional ¥100,000 for an extended warranty.

The car is running well, with no issues so far. Even Porsche-approved tires can sometimes be found online for less than you might expect, so I don’t think maintenance necessarily means spending millions of yen.

That said, parts cost more than they do for Japanese cars, so I imagine expenses could add up once replacements are needed.

⑥ Family and other people’s reactions

People say the Miami Blue looks even better in person than it does in photos. It also really gets them excited. When I tell people I bought a Porsche, they say, “Seriously!? Why?” (laughs)

⑦ What I love most

I love the car’s beautiful overall shape. And I love the excitement I feel whenever I get behind the wheel.

5) Options I’d Want on My Next Porsche

・The Sport Chrono package makes the car more fun, so I’d want it included.
・Since this car has larger-than-standard wheels, I’d want PASM (Porsche Active Suspension Management). Road noise is quite noticeable.
・If the budget allowed, I’d also want to personalize the interior.

6) Things I’m Not So Keen On

The automatic stop-start system doesn’t seem to work very well. The engine sometimes shuts off as the car slows down, before it comes to a complete stop (the blog editor experienced this in a 970 Panamera, too), and once it stalled and didn’t restart. I keep the stop-start system switched off.

Also, the more time I spend with the car, the more interested I’ve become in the 911. I’d like my next car to be a 911 Cabriolet because I want to drive a convertible. I’m not sure when that will happen, though…

7) The Verdict

It may sound contradictory, but it’s “something I don’t need, yet I’m glad I bought.” Even when I have an errand I’d rather put off, it makes me think, “I want to drive, so I might as well go!”

So, if you’re interested in a Porsche, my advice is to go for it. Even if it turns out to be different from what you expected, you can always sell it. I recommend buying the model, color and options you want while they’re still the ones you have your heart set on.

8) What Does Porsche Mean to You?

It’s a car that makes me want to own another Porsche next time. I never used to think much about cars, but now I find myself imagining, “For my next car, I’ll get this model with these options…”

【Editor’s Note】
The Miami Blue 718 Cayman is beautiful, and I can absolutely understand how just looking at it gets you excited. With a Porsche, every drive becomes more than just getting from one place to another—it’s something to look forward to. It’s a wonderful reminder of what makes these cars special. Thank you, TD!